On Wednesday evening, a trio of hard rock and heavy metal titans arrived in Leeds for what promised to be an unforgettable evening of music at the First Direct Arena.

It's been a long time since headliners Judas Priest have delivered such an extensive tour in the UK, so anticipation for the band's return was high. But with a critically acclaimed new album under their belt, the Brummie legends are back on the road again in support of their latest offering Invincible Shield. The band's date in Leeds marked the second night of their current tour having performed in Glasgow the night prior.

This time around, Priest brought with them in tow an incredible touring package featuring peers and rock legends by way of Uriah Heep and Saxon. And with an action-packed evening ahead, Heep opened the proceedings at 6.40 pm. And despite the early start, the arena was packed out. Frontman Bernie Shaw joked that the fans must have caught the early bus. And with just a 35-minute opening spot, the band's carefully chosen seven-song setlist gave the fans a taste of what the band are all about. Staple tracks from the group's seventies repertoire, such as Easy Livin’ and Gypsy, were highlights of Uriah Heep’s short but sweet set.

The Northern Echo: Judas Priest, Leeds First Direct Arena

Originating from Barnsley, NWOBHM legends Saxon were on familiar ground inside Yorkshire's prestigious arena. And with a wall of Marshall amps adorning the band's backline and a huge drum kit perched upon a riser, the fans were under no illusion that the group meant business. Saxon delivered a set that reflected on their past glories whilst giving a healthy nod to the future. Tracks from the band’s latest album Hell, Fire and Damnation, like There's Something in Roswell, and the title track see the band in classic form. Saxon’s latest material sat perfectly in the setlist alongside anthems such as 747 (Strangers in the Night) and Wheels of Steel.

For the Saxon fans, there was the bonus of a guest appearance from guitarist Paul Quinn, who retired from the band's touring line-up in March 2023. In recent times Brian Tatler from Diamond Head has filled the position in the group's live shows. However, at the end of the set, Quinn received a hero’s welcome from the Yorkshire faithful as he took to the stage as part of a three-pronged guitar attack during final numbers Denim and Leather along with Princess of the Night.

Judas Priest are ranked as one of the greatest heavy metal bands of all time. The band are now celebrating 50 years since the release of their debut album, Rocka Rolla. And with nineteen studio albums under their belt, the band had a lot of ground to cover.

The Northern Echo: Judas Priest, Leeds First Direct Arena

The group took to the stage following an intro tape of War Pigs by fellow Birmingham-based legends Black Sabbath before belting through new song Panic Attack and the unmistakable You've Got Another Thing Comin'. The big surprise was the inclusion of Breaking the Law as the third song in the set. It's rare for groups to perform songs of such magnitude so early in the show, but when you've got a back catalogue as rich in anthems as Judas Priest, you can do as you please.

Bedecked in black leather and with occasional changes, Rob Halford commanded the stage. His voice sounded incredible throughout. Whilst guitarist Richie Faulkner was a joy to watch. His skill and flare lit up the stage all night long. Original bass player Ian Hill featured prominently at the rear of the stage.

With the band's latest album less than ten days old, the headliners didn't include too much from their new record, but the songs they featured such as Trial by Fire and the title track itself certainly hit the spot. These songs will inevitably become future classics. Key cuts from the band's extensive back catalogue, such as Turbo Lover, Metal Gods and main set closer Painkiller, had the West Yorkshire crowd singing wholeheartedly at the tops of their voices.

A three-song encore got underway with fan favourite Electric Eye before Halford took to the stage on the back of a motorcycle in true Judas Priest style. And whilst Saxon may have performed their classic Denim and Leather earlier in the evening, it was time for the headliners to unveil their anthem Hell Bent For Leather. A recurring theme was running throughout the evening; perhaps you will agree. The band brought their set and the night to a close with a crowd-pleasing rendition of Living After Midnight.

Fifty years since the release of their debut album, Judas Priest are still our Metal Gods.